Paris Saint-Germain forward and recent Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé shared an emotional message of support for Barcelona star Gavi Baez, who is dealing with a serious knee injury.
Dembélé wrote to his close friend on Instagram: “Stay strong, my little brother. I hope you return soon so we can watch you and enjoy what you bring on the pitch. I miss you a lot. Big hug.”
Dembélé and Gavi built a close friendship during their time together at Barcelona. Even after Dembélé left for Paris Saint-Germain, both players kept in touch regularly through social media and calls.
A Sudden Turn in Careers
The careers of Dembélé and Gavi changed in dramatic ways just two years after their days together at Barcelona. In 2023, the French winger left the Catalan side to join Paris Saint-Germain in a €50 million move, hoping to find his best form again after repeated injuries at Camp Nou.
At that same time, Gavi impressed Europe at just 18 years old with his talent and determination. But while Dembélé fought to regain his level, Gavi faced a series of injury problems that slowed his progress.
In the end, their stories flipped. Gavi now faces another long absence with a knee problem, which could keep him out for five months. Meanwhile, Dembélé overcame his setbacks and reached the top by winning the Ballon d’Or.
Dembélé Backs Gavi in His Recovery
French outlet Foot Mercato reported that Gavi’s knee injury worsened after surgery, which shocked Barcelona’s medical staff. The midfielder shared a picture of himself in the hospital with teammates Pedri, Ronald Araujo, and Lamine Yamal by his side.
He thanked the fans for their messages and wrote: “Everyone who knows me knows that I will fight to return and defend Barcelona until the end. A true champion shows his strength not in easy moments, but in the fight to rise again after falling.”
Dembélé quickly responded with supportive words, showing the strong bond the two players had built both on and off the pitch.
During their time together at Barcelona, Gavi and Dembélé played 59 matches as teammates. Gavi set up two goals for the Frenchman, while Dembélé created one for the young Spanish midfielder. Their link-up play on the pitch matched the friendship they continue to share today.
